Mario Barwuah Balotelli is a Palermo, Sicily-born Italian football player who is famous for his ability to play anywhere along the front line on the football field. Born on 12th August 1990, Balotelli is of Ghanaian descent, and as with many football stars, began playing football as a very young child.
A charismatic player known for his goals, celebrations, and his influential presence in any team he plays in, one may wonder how rich is Mario? As of 2015, Balotelli has an estimated net worth of $40 million; his successful football career has been the source of most of his wealth.
Mario Balotelli Net Worth $40 Million
Mario was fostered at the age of three – Balotelli is his foster parents’ surname. His career in semi-professional football started with Lumezzane when he was 15, where his performances gained the attention of several larger Italian football clubs. In 2007, he was purchased by Internazionale of Milan, one of biggest names in Italian football, making his Series-A debut against Cagliari as a substitute, but making the starting line-up in his team three days later. With his continued good performances on the field, he became the target of many high profile football clubs. In August 12 2010, he was transferred to Manchester City for 21.8 million Euros.
His presence in the English Premiere League was greatly admired. During his presence with Manchester City, the team went on to win the FA Cup, Europa League and the Premier League title. However, in January 2013 he signed a four-and-a-half year transfer deal with A.C Milan, but his career there was short-lived, as in August 2014, Balotelli joined Liverpool for a fee of 16 million euros. And on 27 August 2015, Balotelli returned to a season long loan in Milan. His high class performance in any team he went has made him famous and wealthy as well.
Regarding his international career, being considered a Ghanaian immigrant he was ineligible to play for Italy until becoming a citizen at 18, and was called to play for Ghana in a friendly against Senegal, which he rejected by citing his willingness to play for Italy. He received his Italian Citizenship in August 2008. He made his first appearance in the Italian senior team in a friendly against Ivory Coast, and since then has been appeared in more than 30 games and is regarded as an important player for Italy.
Known for his pace, powerful shots and technical ability, Balotelli is also criticized for his conduct both on and off the field, being still regarded as a promising but immature and ill-disciplined player by colleagues players as well as the media. While playing for Manchester City he received four red cards, has served several suspensions, and has been described by managers as ‘unmanageable’. Taking part in questionable and often amusing activities, he is reputed for being a difficult person, however, his often weird and funny acts have gained him a cult following too. Regardless, Balotelli has been honored as “Man of the Match” in many games. He also won Golden Boy Award in 2010. And many “Team Of The Year” awards.
Regarding his personal life, he has a daughter Pia from his girlfriend Rafella Fico, which paternity he only acknowledged after a positive DNA test. He was also engaged to Fanny Neguesha, but the relationship ended in 2014. He is currently single, with keen interest in cars. He has a £3 million mansion in the UK. He has apparently stopped drinking alcohol altogether after realizing that it was doing him no good. So with a generally successful career, but a life full of mischief and immature acts, Balotelli is still potentially one of the best players today.
